Free CDT podcast episodes designed to help you pass CSI’s Construction Documents Technologist certification. Each episode breaks down CSI’s objectives so you understand exactly what to study for the CDT exam.
The CDT covers the complete project lifecycle from conception through closeout. Each episode covers topics across the eight CDT knowledge domains:
You’ll learn CSI formats like MasterFormat, SectionFormat, and PageFormat, plus how specifications, contractual relationships, and construction administration work throughout the complete project lifecycle. These fundamentals are essential for both the CDT certification and the ARE.
No need to take notes while you listen. For many episodes, we’ve already made a free two-page set of study notes for you – just go to the episode page and grab them.
Ready to pass the CDT? Check out our complete CDT 101 course with 13+ hours of video lessons, 300+ practice questions, 2 full-length mock exams, and 320 domain-specific flashcards.
The CDT (Construction Documents Technologist) is a certification from the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). It tests your understanding of the entire project delivery process, from conception through closeout, with a focus on construction documents, specifications, and how all project parties work together.
Yes. The CDT covers project delivery, construction documents, and specifications at a level that directly supports multiple ARE exams. Many ARE candidates find that CDT knowledge fills gaps that architecture school didn’t cover, especially around specs, procurement, and how construction actually gets administered.
The CDT is challenging but very passable with the right preparation. The exam is 120 multiple-choice questions over 3 hours. Most candidates who study consistently for 4 to 8 weeks pass on their first attempt. The biggest section is Construction Documents at 22% of the exam.
Test day anxiety affects even the most prepared ARE candidates, but the right mindset strategies can transform your exam experience. This comprehensive guide reveals proven techniques to manage test day panic, overcome exam anxiety,...
Construction specifications may not be the sexiest part of building projects, but they’re often the difference between project success and expensive disasters. In this article, we’ll expose the dangerous myths about these critical documents that...
Understanding the financial structure of construction projects is essential for architects. Whether you’re managing a client’s budget expectations, leading your first project, or preparing for the ARE, knowing the difference between hard costs vs soft...
Construction punch lists are the final critical step before project completion, yet there's confusion about who creates them. While many assume architects are responsible, the contractor actually creates the initial punch list - a fact...
Mastering occupancy classifications are essential for ARE success. This guide breaks down IBC's classification system and shows how it affects design, code compliance, and safety. Learn to confidently classify any project and avoid costly compliance...
This guide demystifies all major construction specification types and helps you understand when and how to use each one. These distinctions will make you more effective at writing, interpreting, enforcing, and managing construction documents....
This guide debunks the common misconception about document precedence and explains how drawings vs specifications work together as complementary contract documents. Understanding this drawings vs specifications relationship is crucial for both ARE success and professional...
Have you ever wondered why architectural specifications matter so much? Or maybe you've been avoiding them altogether because they seem intimidating or boring? I get it. Specs aren't exactly the most exciting part of architecture...
In the world of architecture and construction, one truth remains constant: something will always go wrong. No matter how meticulously you plan, how carefully you design, or how thoroughly you prepare your construction documents, the...
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about construction bonds and how they protect your projects. You'll learn the different types of construction bonds (including performance bonds and payment bonds), how surety bonds...
Public works projects and private projects follow completely different rules for procurement, contracts, and decision-making. Whether you’re working with government agencies or private architecture clients, understanding these differences changes how you practice. This guide breaks...